Montvale Plastic Bag Recycling Program FAQ

Q1. Can I leave stickers on the plastic Bags?

A1. No, Labels, Tape, and Adhesive strips SHOULD BE REMOVED prior to putting it in the recycle bin.  The plastic integrity is not important, only Clean and Dry.

Q2. If I'm not sure if a certain plastic can go into the Drop-off bin, can I try to recycle it there anyways?

A2. NO: when in doubt, leave it out! Some plastic bags, wraps, and films have invisible "ingredients" in them to make the plastic perform a certain way. So, if it does not clearly meet the plastic description provided, throw it in the garbage. 


Q3. I have a package that has the #2 or #4 on it and a message or icon suggesting its recyclable curbside. Can I put it in my curbside recycling bin?

A3. NO! Almost all community recycling programs in the US treat plastic films as contaminants and are ultimately landfilled.

Q4. Do I need to do anything to plastic bags/wraps before I drop them into the bins?

A4. Ensure all plastic bags, wraps and films are clean & dry before dropping them in the bin. That just means no crumbs, no food residue, and no liquid inside them.

Q5. Do I need to go to the level of rinsing out each and every bag, and air drying them?

A5. No.

Q6. Will a single bread crumb destroy the whole batch of recycled material?

A6. No. But recyclers do NOT want your leftover tortillas still in the bag.

Q7. What type of plastic bags and wrap do you accept?

A7. Acceptable plastic bags include high-density polyethylene (HDPE or #2 plastic), and low-density polyethylene (#4 plastic or LDPE). It's great if your bags have markings on them, but since most do not here is a simple test.  We do NOT accept plastic bags and wraps that loudly crinkle when you crush them and the plastic MUST STRETCH when you pull it firmly.

Q8. I went to one of the Montvale drop locations and the bin was full, who do I notify and what do I do?

A8. We have placed large clear liner bags in the bottom of all bins so if possible you would help by emptying the bin into the liner and placing a new clear plastic liner in the bin.  Leave the full liner next to the bin for us to pick up.  Please call the Borough at 201-391-5700 and let us know where the bin is located so we can take care of it.